Cardiovascular disease can remain hidden for a long time before it causes any noticeable symptoms. Screening can reveal these hidden health problems so that you can get the care that you need as quickly as possible. How do we decide who should be screened and how often?

Who is at Risk of Heart Disease?

Heart disease can affect anyone, including both men and women, older and younger people, and even professional athletes. However, we do know that some people are more likely to be affected than others. Anyone who is over the age of 30 can benefit from cardiac screening, but it is most important if you are at higher risk. You may need more frequent or extensive screening if you:

Are over the age of 40, as heart disease is more common as we grow older

Have a family history of heart disease, especially if your father or brother was affected before the age or 55 or your mother or sister was affected before the age of 65

Have a close relative who has been diagnosed with a hereditary heart condition such as a lipid disorder or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Are overweight or obese

Smoke or drink a lot of alcohol

Lead a sedentary lifestyle or a very active one that puts stress on your heart

How Often Should You Be Screened?

A low risk score of less than 10% means that you should come back in 5 years

A moderate risk score of 10-20% means that you should be screened every year

A high-risk score over 20% means that you will probably need closer monitoring

If you have a moderate or high risk of heart disease, then your doctor will also recommend some lifestyle changes and treatments to reduce the risk. You may also need some additional tests, such as an ECG or echocardiogram to check on your heart.